NRL Sunday LIVE: Legends Question Potential Tom Trbojevic Transfer Amid Growing Pressure on Brother Jake

Brad Fittler has dismissed speculation surrounding a potential transfer for Tom Trbojevic, as the Sea Eagles face the pressing task of finding a replacement for Daly Cherry-Evans next season.

The 36-year-old announced earlier this week that he would depart from Manly at the conclusion of the season, prompting the club to be linked with Canberra’s Jamal Fogarty as a possible recruit.

Another scenario that has emerged involves an internal reshuffle.

“The alternative idea is to shift Luke Brooks to halfback and have Tom Trbojevic step up to five-eighth,” said Billy Slater during Nine’s Sunday Footy Show.

This suggestion was promptly dismissed by Fittler, who believes Manly should focus on nurturing promising talent from within.

“Tom is an exceptional athlete standing at six foot five,” the Roosters legend noted.

“Can you envision him bending down to make tackles? Currently, he is grappling with injury issues—there’s no way I’d put him in that position.”

“They have just made significant investments in two promising youngsters, Onitoni Large and Joey Walsh. I’m familiar with them as they played alongside my son; both are tough and capable kickers.”

“Luke Brooks may feel the weight of expectations on him, despite not having the best run at the Tigers.”

Andrew Johns provided his insights as well, referencing Kalyn Ponga’s short-lived experiment in the five-eighth role with the Knights, which he labelled a “disaster,” advising Manly to steer clear of a similar approach with their star fullback.

The rugby league Immortal also expressed confidence that the Cherry-Evans situation won’t derail the Sea Eagles, despite the surrounding media frenzy.

“I don’t think the situation will throw Manly off course because of one individual—Jake Trbojevic,” Johns commented.

“I have no doubt Jake will rally his teammates and foster team spirit. This presents a key leadership challenge for him, and I’m confident he will rise to it.”